Things to do in Val di Noto
Discover the best attractions and experiences Val di Noto has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the iconic Baroque architecture that defines the Val di Noto towns.
Noto Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Nicolò)
A grand Baroque cathedral in the heart of Noto, renowned for its refined façade and interior.
Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata
Lavish Baroque palace with ornate balconies overlooking Noto's main street.
Duomo di San Giorgio, Ragusa Ibla
A striking Baroque cathedral rising in Ragusa Ibla's historic core.
Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, Caltagirone
Iconic 148-step staircase flanked by colorful ceramic tiles and a hilltop church.
Museums
Delve into archaeology, ceramics and local history that shape the region.
Museo Archeologico Ibleo
Archaeological museum in Ragusa with artifacts from the Iblean area.
Museo della Ceramica di Caltagirone
Showcases traditional Sicilian ceramics including the towns famed wares.
Museo Civico di Modica
Civic museum presenting Modica's artistic and historical heritage.
Museo del Cioccolato di Modica
Museum dedicated to Modica's renowned stone-ground chocolate.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites that highlight the region's religious heritage and Baroque embellishments.
Noto Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Nicolò)
Grand Baroque cathedral dominating Noto's central square.
Cattedrale di San Giorgio, Modica
Elegant cathedral exemplifying Modica's Baroque character.
Duomo di San Giorgio, Ragusa
Stately cathedral set within Ragusa Ibla’s labyrinth of lanes.
Chiesa di San Bartolomeo, Scicli
Historic church tucked among Scicli's intricate streets.
National & Theme Parks
Natural reserves and protected landscapes frame the region’s scenery.
Riserva Naturale Orientata Vendicari
Coastal reserve known for birds, beaches and salt flats.
Riserva Naturale Cavagrande del Cassibile
Dramatic canyon with clear pools and scenic trails.
Riserva Naturale di Pantalica
Ancient canyon and archeological landscape near Palazzolo Acreide.
Neighborhoods
Characterful cores where you feel the local rhythms.
Ragusa Ibla
The old town of Ragusa with narrow lanes, stairways and charming courtyards.
Noto Historic Centre
Elegant streets, grand palazzi and Baroque churches along a sweeping avenue.
Modica Old Town
Winding lanes, pastel façades and a strong crafts tradition.
Scicli Historic Centre
Picturesque townscape of palazzi and scenic corners.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy the region’s beauty.
Stroll through Ragusa Ibla at sunset
Wander the lantern-lit alleys and scenic staircases.
Walk Noto’s marble streets and Piazza del Duomo
Explore grand squares and façades without spending a euro.
Explore Scicli’s baroque lanes
Take in architecture, nooks and viewpoints along the streets.
Beach stroll at Marina di Ragusa
Relax on public beaches and enjoy the sea air.
Gastronomy
Local flavors that define the Val di Noto.
Cioccolato di Modica
Distinctive stone-ground chocolate with a grainy texture.
Granita with brioche
Frothy, icy sweetness ideal for hot Sicilian days.
Arancini and panelle
Classic Sicilian fried snacks found in markets and trattorie.
Olio extravergine di oliva locali
Moist, aromatic olive oil produced in the surrounding hills.
Nightlife
Evening atmospheres reflecting Sicily’s convivial spirit.
Aperitivo in Ragusa Ibla
Cafés and bars spill onto the picturesque squares after dark.
Evening strolls along Noto's illuminated streets
Soft lights highlight Baroque façades after sunset.
Modica Corso Umberto at night
Casual bars, gelaterias and lively street life.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences that showcase local craft and performance.
Outdoor summer concerts in Ragusa Ibla
Music in historic spaces beneath the night sky.
Puppet theatre in Scicli or Modica
Traditional Sicilian puppet shows reviving classic tales.
Scicli street performances during festivals
Vibrant processions and live acts in the squares.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy coastlines and landscapes.
Kayaking or snorkeling at Vendicari coast
Explore lagoons and marine life along protected shores.
Hiking Cavagrande del Cassibile
Trail routes through dramatic canyons and natural pools.
Beach activities at Marina di Ragusa
Swim, sun and sea sports along the long sandy beach.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and lesser visited corners.
Akrai Archaeological Park (Palazzolo Acreide)
Ancient Greek ruins set in a hillside landscape.
Necropolis of Pantalica
Ridge tombs carved into limestone cliffs with panoramic views.